tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79560803328850502262017-11-18T13:13:38.430-08:00Maywood Cottage Create...Inspire...Share...BelieveThe Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.comBlogger44125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-57674915290162192462017-04-25T13:32:00.003-07:002017-04-26T18:56:44.672-07:00Why Pray?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2a1Aq4MYt4/WP-x11mQ9uI/AAAAAAAAGqc/0YM2xa-dYAAHQksZQsG2dyRVoTRuoj0RQCLcB/s1600/gate-arch-899062_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2a1Aq4MYt4/WP-x11mQ9uI/AAAAAAAAGqc/0YM2xa-dYAAHQksZQsG2dyRVoTRuoj0RQCLcB/s640/gate-arch-899062_1280.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> <o:PixelsPerInch>96</o:PixelsPerInch> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings></xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> 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mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style><![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <br /><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">A few months ago the Lord gave me an assignment to go to the center of our small town and pray for her. He had called me to do this a few years ago and I did it for a while but then I quit because I became busy with a full time job and other things. When He "recalled" me to this assignment I argued and hemmed and hawed for a couple of weeks, then He grew quiet...I know what it means when He grows quiet so I humbly repented and took my assignment. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The small town I live in has a heroin problem. Many young people are dying from over-doses and bad batches of the drug. Another thing is, some churches are dying or dead. There are many prodigals who have taken their spiritual inheritance and are spending them on the world. Many Christ followers have become pew warmers and no longer live in the fire of God; the passion is gone (I've been there) and they're no longer disciples (the desire to be taught, trained, disciplined, surrendered; I've been there too). <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">A couple of weeks ago I heard Abba tell me to "open the gate". I sat sipping my coffee and wondering what gate He wanted me to open. "Which gate Lord". Psalm 24:7-9 came to my mind: "</span><b style="font-size: 18.66666603088379px;">Open up, ancient gates! Open up, ancient doors, and let&nbsp;</b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>King of glory enter</b>."&nbsp; In my sanctified imagination I bent over, lifted the gate and motioned for the Kingly Rider to come in.&nbsp; I welcomed the King of Glory to my town.&nbsp; On my way home I considered maybe I had simply wanted this and over-did it.&nbsp; "Lord, are you sure you called the right person to this, You know I can be imaginative".&nbsp; No answer...yet.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I arrived home, took care of a few things and then checked the happenings going on with an intercessory group that I'm a member of. There, on the first posting, I saw this very same Scripture confirming the message I had received.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">7 Lift up your heads, O gates,<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">&nbsp; And be lifted up, O ancient doors,<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">&nbsp; That the King of glory may come in! <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">8 Who is the King of glory?<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">&nbsp; The LORD strong and mighty,<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">&nbsp; The LORD mighty in battle.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">9 Lift up your heads, O gates,<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">&nbsp; And lift them up, O ancient doors,<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">&nbsp; That the King of glory may come in!<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">10 Who is this King of glory?<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The LORD of hosts,<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He is the King of glory.&nbsp; <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Why do I always question that it was from the Lord?????<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Last Friday (4/21/17), I went to my assignment. I sipped coffee and prayed over my town.&nbsp; I was reading the introduction of a book and it was talking about the rain...revival rain; I began to pray, "<b>Lord let it start raining</b>". I experienced a deep stirring of God in my spirit, deeper than other times I have prayed there. My spirit began to groan and a prayer of the Spirit rose up in me. I opened my mouth and released the prayer into the atmosphere of my town. I didn’t care if anyone heard me; if someone wants to know what that language was, well, that would be a great opening for a time of sharing my testimony. It was loud in the coffee shop with people talking and the expresso machine hissing.. I prayed there would be a rebuilding of altars to the Lord, a <b>remodeling</b> of spiritual lives.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Early this morning I dreamed that I was remodeling a house that belonged to my boss. It was finished and I handed him the key.&nbsp; I woke up as we were planning a celebration of the finished work.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Today as I prepared to go to the coffee shop (Daily Grind) I was wondering if I was actually called to do this..."is this really an assignment, Lord". I got in my car and drove over; I parked and walked to the shop, IT WAS RAINING and the shop was closed for REMODELING.&nbsp; I don't look for signs in things but sometimes when they are obvious all I can say is..THANK YOU LORD.&nbsp; It's like receiving food so I can keep going in the strength of the Lord. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I know the remodeling dream was about me since most dreams are about the dreamer but this dream encouraged me, that God is hearing my prayers and is speaking to me about my town. Oh, while my hubby and I were on our little get away a couple of weeks ago, we went to see a local play....it was "OUR TOWN".<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><!--EndFragment--></div>The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-13698698719139971142017-02-06T05:38:00.002-08:002017-02-08T05:54:53.433-08:00The Story of the Rose...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o25J5nLnsyE/WJh8J7BUw0I/AAAAAAAAGls/XUHa7kL1L8w8xGVvPO2rJ7zmFvdRCjr_wCLcB/s1600/raindrops11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o25J5nLnsyE/WJh8J7BUw0I/AAAAAAAAGls/XUHa7kL1L8w8xGVvPO2rJ7zmFvdRCjr_wCLcB/s640/raindrops11.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />A few summers ago my husband and I made a quick trip to Target. As we strolled down the aisles with our buggy, picking up the items we had on our list, I could hear thunder rumbling outside. We don't have thunderstorms in our area very often but when we do they can be dramatic. The thunder was in the distance so I thought we had time to finish shopping and make it home before the storm pushed in. As we were checking out we looked out the store front windows and saw buckets of rain pouring down. We decided to wait out the storm in a Starbucks located at the front of the store. We ordered our coffee and sat down by the large wall of windows. The sky was blackened with storm clouds, the once distant thunder had closed the gap, lightening was streaking across the sky like bullets of light and rain was coming down in sheets. The storm had arrived. We watched as a few brave souls darted out the door and to their cars. Two small girls (about 9 and 10) ran to a car that had pulled up within feet of the store's door, they quickly turned and ran down an aisle in the parking lot. Poor dears had run to the wrong car. They must have been drenched when they hopped into the right one.<br /><br />As we sat and watched the rain pound the pavement and sidewalks we thought that hail was falling but at a closer look we could see that what we thought was hail was actually raindrops hitting the pavement with such force they were bouncing up like hail does.<br /><br />I love watching thunderstorms and rain, there is something completely powerful about it. The display of lights and sound from a thunderstorm, to me, is as captivating as any movie Hollywood could make. I watch a streak of lighting light up the sky and wonder where did it hit; I hear a roll of thunder and think of how that rumble will travel miles to warn others of the coming storm.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8DyY6C-Jqkc/TARuSR5jitI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/XMDAtU2vroA/s1600/roselesson2.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477624307110873810" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8DyY6C-Jqkc/TARuSR5jitI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/XMDAtU2vroA/s400/roselesson2.JPG" style="float: right; height: 400px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 267px;" /></a>If this post is a "story of the rose", why am I talking about a storm? I can't tell the story of the rose without telling the story of the storm. They are connected.<br /><br />After we arrived home, night had fallen and what was a promise of a full moon was hidden by the dark clouds. I began to think about my rose bushes loaded with fragrant blooms. I decided to wait until morning before venturing out to take a look at the damage. The next morning, with a cup of coffee in hand, of course, I walked out onto my front porch to take a look. To my surprise, very few blossoms had been knocked off by the driving rain. The leaves were radiant with the reflection of the raindrops sitting on them.&nbsp; The pale petals were sun-kissed and seemed to be proud to hold their heads high after such a beating. I was amazed that such a fragile beauty could survive a tremendous storm of winds and rain. I sat down with my coffee and pondered a lesson from this. Life's storms happen to all of us. Sometimes we hear the distant rumble of them heading our way and have time to prepare and sometimes they arrive unannounced taking us by surprise. The shock and fury of them may cause us to lose our mental and emotional equilibrium. In our storm we may feel like a ship tossed to and fro in the fury, whipped by the winds, taken to the sheer, dizzying crest of misfortune's wave and then let go to slip down the slope of despair. Just when we think life's storm will never end, it passes. Often these storms leave a lingering sense of fear that another one is just out there past the horizon beyond our sight.<br /><br />As I surveyed my rose garden and sipped my coffee I considered how those blooms made it through the storm; I thought about how I planted the rose garden. I dug down deep to give the plants a good foundation, I scooped out the clay soil and replaced it with good soil that drains well (just what roses need), I added nutrients to give them a good start; since their planting, I have added new layers of mulch each year which has broken down and add richness to the soil. I pruned them when needed to give the core branches strength and kept the suckers clipped off so the real plant would receive the water and nourishment and not branches that would never bloom. The bushes are healthy because they are anchored well and given what they need to keep them healthy. When we are anchored well and given what we need to be healthy in our body, soul and spirit, we can survive the storms of life. I am personally anchored in a faith in Jesus Christ. I depend on His Word to feed my soul and spirit. I believe He has called us to be good stewards of our bodies so I try to eat well and exercise. I try (but I'm not always successful, I must admit) to not allow "suckers" in my life that will deplete my time and energy and that don't produce what is fruitful for my life. I have recently come through a devastating life storm and because my roots sink deep into an unshakeable Faith I know that this rose will survive and thrive again. I know there are other storms that will cross the horizon in my direction, they are inevitable; I don't look forward to them but I won't live in a state of fear or dread. If you are going through a life storm, keep the faith, you will make it through.The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-56805504220708601062017-02-01T06:44:00.000-08:002017-02-01T06:46:48.699-08:00Scars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6kJSVVAnYzc/WJH0FSv5K6I/AAAAAAAAGlI/BN_2dvCTGIw5BSczv_dsbdhbK5-qgCRTwCLcB/s1600/breadboard6b.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6kJSVVAnYzc/WJH0FSv5K6I/AAAAAAAAGlI/BN_2dvCTGIw5BSczv_dsbdhbK5-qgCRTwCLcB/s640/breadboard6b.png" width="316" /></a></div>Encouragement can come from the strangest place and just when you need it most. Isn't it funny how that happens? I bought this cutting board at one of my favorite local antique shops. Like most cutting boards it is well used, showing lots of cuts and knicks. If it had been smooth and unused I would have passed it by. Its well used, marred, distressed, worn look is that special something that I am looking for when I go to the antique store.<br /><br />I will crawl under benches, and dig through boxes, move stuff out of corners to see what is hiding close to the wall; I'll stretch to reach the barely reachable top of a shelf and will step back, not to see the whole area, but to see individual items that I can't see while I am standing surrounded by so many pieces. Stepping back allows me to focus in on one piece among so many. Yes, I will search high and low to find those well used and scarred items. As I painted this board, I admired the roughness of it, the worn-ness, the scars and it brought to mind Christ's work in me. Like this piece I was scarred, forgotten, used, tossed away. But He saw me, one among so many lost and discarded souls, and He bought me when I was worthless; purchased me for a price I could never repay. As I watched the scars on this board change into something beautiful as I applied the paint, I thought of how He makes all things beautiful in His time; not removing the scars but using them to enhance the beauty. He would know about scars, He has scars made beautiful too.<br /><br />When I was finished painting, I ran my hands over the scars on this board and was pleased with it. I hope when He is finished with me, He will be pleased. If you have scars that only remind you of failures, hopelessness, hurt, pain, loss; give those scars to Him and see what He will do. You will be surprised. After all, He will crawl under benches, and dig through boxes, move stuff out of corners to see where you are hiding; He will stretch to reach the barely reachable top of a shelf and even stoop to the lowest place just to reach you. How do I know? Because He did it for me.The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-19760496358540780342017-01-13T07:00:00.000-08:002017-01-16T19:17:11.237-08:00A Cup of Encouragement<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y_k0ZeGQ718/WHhG5lURMkI/AAAAAAAAGhM/WlBdU_Dr_Eo_F8OFAazFbPgSL3WuQn6xwCLcB/s1600/cherries6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y_k0ZeGQ718/WHhG5lURMkI/AAAAAAAAGhM/WlBdU_Dr_Eo_F8OFAazFbPgSL3WuQn6xwCLcB/s640/cherries6.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />I love winter mornings. &nbsp;The cold air that rushes over me like a bucket of icy water when I crawl from under the warm covers.... makes me shiver thinking about it. The freezing floor that sucks the, cozy just out of bed, warmth from my feet....brrr..another shiver. What's not to love about that? Generally, &nbsp;I hurry into the bathroom, brush my teeth, moisturize my face, consider brushing my hair but sweep that thought away and jump into my clothes. &nbsp;Why all the rush? I need a cup of coffee, of course. &nbsp;Hmmm....might be because I'm cold too.<br /><br />This morning I chose a cup of cherries as a prelude to a piece of toast and boiled egg for breakfast. &nbsp;Cherries are one of my favorite fruits. I love plucking the stem off and popping them into my mouth. &nbsp;Yum!<br /><br />This morning along with my cup of cherries I enjoyed a remarkable passage in Zechariah 4. &nbsp;A few days ago while I was praying about things that were heavy on my heart, the Lord directed me to this chapter in Zechariah. &nbsp;What an encouraging portion of Scripture! &nbsp;Zerubbabel, the Governor of Judah, was given the task to rebuild the Temple after the Jewish people were released from a 70 year exile in Babylon. The Temple had been destroyed along with the walls of Jerusalem. The once beautiful Temple built by Solomon was a charred mountainous heap before Zerubbabel. The gold and silver had been stripped from the temple and carted off to different kingdoms. &nbsp;The beautiful fragrant cedars of Lebanon and the large quarried stones crafted into the foundation and walls of the Temple, the pride of Israel, laid in ruined heaps...all of it. &nbsp; <br /><br />The monumental task of removing the debris before re-laying the foundation must have been overwhelming to Zerubbabel and Joshua the High Priest. Perhaps a larger mountain was the opposition the returning captives faced from their neighbors the Samaritans. &nbsp;Once the foundation was laid, the Samaritans began to oppose the rebuilding and frustrated the work by sending false and negative reports back to the governors of the King of Persia, the ruling kingdom at that time. The work on the Temple was halted for 7 years until King Darius became Ruler of Persia. &nbsp;God gave a word to the prophet Zechariah for Zerubbabel; a word of hope and encouragement. &nbsp;God said "Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit says the Lord of Host". &nbsp;What a Word! &nbsp;In essence, Zerubbable, it's not going to be by your own might or your own strength that this work will be done. &nbsp;It's going to happen because My Spirit is working on your behalf, helping you, giving you all that you need including favor with the new king of Persia, Darius. &nbsp;As a side note...it is mind boggling how kingdoms rose and fell during this time. <br /><br />When King Darius received a missive from the leaders of Israel, he had the scribes search the archives and discovered that King Cyrus had given edicts for the House of God to be rebuilt at Jerusalem. So, Darius issued a decree for Cyrus' plans to continue. &nbsp;Not only did he approve the Israelites continuing work on the House of God but he footed the cost; Darius also released the articles belonging to the House of God which had been taken to Babylon! Plus, he decreed that<br /><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace;"><i>"whoever alters this edict, let a timber be pulled from his house and erected and let him be hanged on it; and let his house be made a refuse heap because of this. And may the God who causes His name to dwell there destroy any king or people who put their hand to alter it, or to destroy this House of God which is in Jerusalem. I Darius issue a decree; let it be done diligently." </i>&nbsp;</span><br /><br />&nbsp;That's the Spirit of God at work upon the heart of a king. Don't interrupt this venture again...or else!<br /><br />"Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the Lord of Host", a great promise to a nation trying to rebuild their country again, but, God didn't stop there, He also said Zerubbable would be the one to add the capstone to the finished Temple.<br /><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace;">"And he (Zerubbable) shall bring forth the capstone with shouts of "Grace, grace to it!" "</span><br /><br />&nbsp; From a mountain of ruins and a constant battle from opposing forces the building of the Temple and walls were completed. I can imagine the celebration as that capstone was set in place.<br /><br />When the task we are facing looks bigger than a mountain, God's word is still true to us today. &nbsp;"Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit says the Lord of Host". We can accomplish that task, not because of ourselves but because of Him. &nbsp;It will take effort, it will take working in spite of &nbsp;opposition but we will finish and we will look at what is accomplished and say "grace, grace to it".<br /><br />~willa~The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-27152290186627854582016-11-21T05:55:00.000-08:002016-11-21T19:24:07.801-08:00From BehindThe story of the woman in Luke 8: 42-48 has always captured my attention. &nbsp;Many times I have imagined her touching Jesus, imagined her hand reaching out and touching the hem of His clothes; imagined her slipping through the crowd that jostled around Him; imagined her stretching her arm out as far as she could, hoping it was far enough.<br /><br />I've imagined her hopelessness with the medical situation she was in. &nbsp;As a woman I could imagine that very well. &nbsp;I imagined her hoping that each time she was treated by a doctor that it would work this time. &nbsp;I imagined the 12 long years she endured this "issue of blood" and the uncleanness she was forced to live with. &nbsp;I imagined her counting out her coins and putting them into the hand of the doctor, a payment that was futile. I imagined the bloody rags she changed often and the tears that probably rolled down her cheeks.<br /><br />I imagined her letting go of hope.<br /><br />I imagined her hearing about Jesus, maybe just maybe.....<br /><br />I imagined the day He came to her town; I imagine her cleaning herself up and walking out of her home, dare she do it since she was unclean. &nbsp;I imagined her slipping into the crowd. &nbsp;I imagined her hearing Him speak, He's going to heal Jairus' daughter; &nbsp;I imagined she knew Jairus; Jairus wouldn't ask Jesus to come heal his daughter if Jesus couldn't, would he? &nbsp;I imagined faith flaring in her heart. <br /><br />I imagined her desperation as she weaved between humanity that crowed around Jesus. &nbsp;I imagined her being shoved, pushed aside, each shove feeding her determination to reach Him.<br /><br />I imagined her coming from behind, the tips of her fingers touching Him and the feeling of the issue of blood drying up. &nbsp;I imagined her hearing Jesus say "who touched Me". &nbsp;I imagined her fear as everyone denied it, I imagined her guilt. I imagined Jesus' eyes connecting with hers as He said " I felt power go out of Me". &nbsp;I imagined she knew because she felt that power charge through her. <br /><br />I imagined her coming forward, afraid, He is a clean man, a holy man and she had touched Him. I imagined her falling down, her bowed head; I imagined her confession, a silent plea for mercy. &nbsp;I imagined hearing Jesus' words to her "Daughter, be of good cheer, your faith has made you well. &nbsp;Go in peace".<br /><br />I imagined her getting to her feet, cherishing the thought He called her Daughter. &nbsp;I imagined her joy at being healed, changed, free, at peace.<br /><br />Then, I imagine my hand reaching out to touch Him.The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-77891286544056215062016-04-19T04:30:00.000-07:002017-01-13T21:55:50.782-08:00Chop...Chop. Collection of Cutting Boards.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0FAm1UdIep8/VxZXKf4JOWI/AAAAAAAAGDo/prvkl-JtQyQGeTwHplIR1MA1Ka7ILEMMACLcB/s1600/cuttingboard11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0FAm1UdIep8/VxZXKf4JOWI/AAAAAAAAGDo/prvkl-JtQyQGeTwHplIR1MA1Ka7ILEMMACLcB/s640/cuttingboard11.png" width="456" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WB216G6_uo4/VvQoFxGyxBI/AAAAAAAAF-0/qaYUtmlZXMQbRv63r2dv1IIFSXxkBNDjg/s1600/cuttingboards5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WB216G6_uo4/VvQoFxGyxBI/AAAAAAAAF-0/qaYUtmlZXMQbRv63r2dv1IIFSXxkBNDjg/s640/cuttingboards5.png" width="540" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's been a windy day here at Maywood Cottage, a good day to stay indoors and watch life outside from my kitchen window while sitting at the bar.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />I can hear the chimes on the front porch and on the arbor at the side of the house. &nbsp;They are keeping time with the gusts that are sweeping through.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nBBZydRvISw/VvQo-fIgWtI/AAAAAAAAF_A/TPHPZevzrrkvY80IO0QcsYGGxxsvEt0eA/s1600/cuttingboards3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="514" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nBBZydRvISw/VvQo-fIgWtI/AAAAAAAAF_A/TPHPZevzrrkvY80IO0QcsYGGxxsvEt0eA/s640/cuttingboards3.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />I've seen this idea for storing a collection of chopping boards on several blogs listed on Pinterest. &nbsp;Some are stored in baskets, others in sewing drawers and some in crates or wooden boxes. &nbsp;I found this beachy style wooden box at Target in the 3.00 - 5.00 section of the store. &nbsp;I fell in love with the rope handles and knew I wanted to use it somewhere in my kitchen. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />I painted the box with a sage green color, then varnished it.<br /><br />Thorough the years I have found a few chopping boards in my favorite vintage/antique shops that I frequent. &nbsp;I have painted designs on a few and sold them in my Etsy shop. &nbsp;They are one of my favorite surfaces to paint on.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NWODZC9fNxE/VwRgaurkQHI/AAAAAAAAGCI/TVEduULIOvI9BuK7ZHwsiTHfAb2i1ojfw/s1600/breadboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NWODZC9fNxE/VwRgaurkQHI/AAAAAAAAGCI/TVEduULIOvI9BuK7ZHwsiTHfAb2i1ojfw/s640/breadboard.jpg" width="358" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vLtzi8b2G3k/VwRgnJQKpII/AAAAAAAAGCM/Z99logYQxQInlBG8RoG2kvUFIICbTIm1Q/s1600/breadboard4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vLtzi8b2G3k/VwRgnJQKpII/AAAAAAAAGCM/Z99logYQxQInlBG8RoG2kvUFIICbTIm1Q/s640/breadboard4.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TeJjlCfH1qQ/VwRhIPo0E8I/AAAAAAAAGCU/GFOulxFf0r8k5K_qqK7GxuMynM-1JnB_g/s1600/breadboard3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TeJjlCfH1qQ/VwRhIPo0E8I/AAAAAAAAGCU/GFOulxFf0r8k5K_qqK7GxuMynM-1JnB_g/s640/breadboard3.jpg" width="392" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5wdUxtihsAY/VwRhPhnmrJI/AAAAAAAAGCc/1T7cM6mchs4GGkM3VhQ2kNTSazW8GGLmQ/s1600/breadboard5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5wdUxtihsAY/VwRhPhnmrJI/AAAAAAAAGCc/1T7cM6mchs4GGkM3VhQ2kNTSazW8GGLmQ/s640/breadboard5.jpg" width="356" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uo9bZ71AyuM/VwRhZt2j4vI/AAAAAAAAGCg/M9moFgRUK6omZZNhnRMthjeet2YPlfHvQ/s1600/breadboard6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uo9bZ71AyuM/VwRhZt2j4vI/AAAAAAAAGCg/M9moFgRUK6omZZNhnRMthjeet2YPlfHvQ/s640/breadboard6.jpg" width="316" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dmW3GbZcod8/VwRhh45kOlI/AAAAAAAAGCk/_VBHjQOcg4kZPVqgswF3oGPMePjHXKJXg/s1600/breadboard7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dmW3GbZcod8/VwRhh45kOlI/AAAAAAAAGCk/_VBHjQOcg4kZPVqgswF3oGPMePjHXKJXg/s640/breadboard7.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f-7Tq2b6yyc/VwRhqnC0g2I/AAAAAAAAGCs/KL6RDSebC-AeBGOp3dCyI_tIof3lgtGNA/s1600/breadboard8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f-7Tq2b6yyc/VwRhqnC0g2I/AAAAAAAAGCs/KL6RDSebC-AeBGOp3dCyI_tIof3lgtGNA/s640/breadboard8.jpg" width="370" /></a></div><br /><br />Create...Inspire...Share...Believe<br /><br />~willa~<br /><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7956080332885050226%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D7789128654405621506%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&amp;media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-f-7Tq2b6yyc%2FVwRhqnC0g2I%2FAAAAAAAAGCs%2FKL6RDSebC-AeBGOp3dCyI_tIof3lgtGNA%2Fs640%2Fbreadboard8.jpg&amp;xm=h&amp;xv=sa1.37.01&amp;xuid=GCwKJ_hoEhB0&amp;description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 168px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 6778px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7956080332885050226%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D7789128654405621506%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&amp;media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-f-7Tq2b6yyc%2FVwRhqnC0g2I%2FAAAAAAAAGCs%2FKL6RDSebC-AeBGOp3dCyI_tIof3lgtGNA%2Fs640%2Fbreadboard8.jpg&amp;xm=h&amp;xv=sa1.37.01&amp;xuid=GCwKJ_hoEhB0&amp;description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 168px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 6778px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-41904736629685917302016-04-12T05:30:00.001-07:002016-04-19T09:03:01.802-07:00Vinegar...Plus...Herbs...Equal...Infused<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iE0JxWASo-A/VvXr1y2VByI/AAAAAAAAF_g/7PkGn8DPspcE3fFZEEuPlJG_HYZ7o3p1g/s1600/infusedvinegar7b.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iE0JxWASo-A/VvXr1y2VByI/AAAAAAAAF_g/7PkGn8DPspcE3fFZEEuPlJG_HYZ7o3p1g/s640/infusedvinegar7b.png" width="426" /></a></div><br />I love infused vinegar and olive oils. &nbsp;I've bought them from speciality shops but have aways wanted to make my own. &nbsp;Finally....I did!!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0NawXKIxRPE/VvXsRajDe_I/AAAAAAAAF_k/hgG-i_O6J-AzsUyRxU2lCYpYde8CMq2Pw/s1600/infusedvinegar9b.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="554" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0NawXKIxRPE/VvXsRajDe_I/AAAAAAAAF_k/hgG-i_O6J-AzsUyRxU2lCYpYde8CMq2Pw/s640/infusedvinegar9b.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />Step No-1 in making these infused vinegars was to research how to do it. &nbsp;And research I did...lots and lots of research. &nbsp;While there are many recipes for different flavors out there on the ever expanding and seemingly endless information highway, there is also lots of debate about keep these fresh and uncontaminated by bacteria....that's scary, huh!! &nbsp;While I definitely want the wonderful flavor, I definitely don't want the bacteria.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-atXUmX84-NE/VvXshYt_N5I/AAAAAAAAF_o/V6nwYbXJCp87EYkOVxNH2FtWaVGkoQkxw/s1600/infusedvinegar8b.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-atXUmX84-NE/VvXshYt_N5I/AAAAAAAAF_o/V6nwYbXJCp87EYkOVxNH2FtWaVGkoQkxw/s640/infusedvinegar8b.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />So, after miles and miles of travel down that information highway, these are the articles I found that best suited me for my quest in making these wonderful infused delights...<a href="http://www.motherearthliving.com/food-and-recipes/recipes/herb-infused-vinegar-recipe-zmgz15jazhou.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.holistichealthherbalist.com/make-herbal-vinegars/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;But, be sure and research because there are lots of recipes and great advice out there.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3CUCwN1vYm8/VvXszWQkjWI/AAAAAAAAF_s/C1gpEKFN5Cg4R67sxl8srwbkZFqOQbdfQ/s1600/infusedvinegar10b.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3CUCwN1vYm8/VvXszWQkjWI/AAAAAAAAF_s/C1gpEKFN5Cg4R67sxl8srwbkZFqOQbdfQ/s640/infusedvinegar10b.png" width="354" /></a></div>&nbsp;Step No~2 in this adventure was to decide on what bottles I would use. &nbsp;I looked on different sites that sell speciality bottles but just couldn't get away from the desire to use a couple of recycled bottles. &nbsp;I prowled through some of my "stored away to be used later" glass jars but none of them screamed "pick me".<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-woyQ6sQvnHE/VvXtISe-FBI/AAAAAAAAF_w/JuV-SvO-UyU0-h7ZvRaXfjux5Dtr0I2Eg/s1600/infusedvinegar7b.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-woyQ6sQvnHE/VvXtISe-FBI/AAAAAAAAF_w/JuV-SvO-UyU0-h7ZvRaXfjux5Dtr0I2Eg/s640/infusedvinegar7b.png" width="426" /></a></div><br />Not long after this search I was looking through my cabinet for a bottle of Balsamic vinegar that I needed for a recipe. &nbsp;I pushed canned goods out of my way in this direction and that direction looking &nbsp;for a bottle of the vinegar I just knew I had...hadn't I just used it not too long ago. &nbsp;Finally, I found what I was looking for. &nbsp;I pulled it out of the cabinet and noticed the bottle looked kind of old. &nbsp;Hmmm..what's the expiration date on this thing. &nbsp;2011....what? &nbsp;That was that....I might have used it if it was stamped 2014 but....nope, not 2011. &nbsp;I poured the liquid down the drain and rinsed out the bottle. &nbsp;Wait a minute....that's a nice looking bottle, it would be perfect for my infused vinegar. &nbsp;So, I washed it and set it aside.<br /><br />That same day looking through the fridge I spotted a Jarritos flavored soda and had the same heavenly musical thought ring through my head....that's a great bottle for my infused vinegar so I chugged the soda down and washed and de-labled the bottle.<br /><br />Step No~2 accomplished.<br /><br />Now for a &nbsp;step No~3. &nbsp;What about the lid? &nbsp;I tried a wine cork in these and they fit but it wasn't the look I had in my creative thought bubble for these. Then, I remembered... I had purchased a package of wine toppers at Target a few weeks prior to this adventure and knew these would be perfect, they are colorful and fit these bottles like it was meant to be.<br /><br />Step No~4. &nbsp;A label. &nbsp;Scrubbing a label off a bottle isn't my favorite thing to do so I eliminated that idea...no sticky labels. &nbsp;I created these labels in PicMonkey, printed them out on card stock, placed a piece of masking tape to reinforce where the hole would be, punched a hole with a hole punch and used some jute to loop them on the bottle. <br /><br />Simple, simple, simple! &nbsp;Now...to use them.<br /><br />Next, I'm looking forward to making some infused olive oil.<br /><br />Create...Inspire...Share...Believe<br /><br />~willa~<br /><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7956080332885050226%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D4190473662968591730%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D2%3Bsrc%3Dlink&amp;media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-atXUmX84-NE%2FVvXshYt_N5I%2FAAAAAAAAF_o%2FV6nwYbXJCp87EYkOVxNH2FtWaVGkoQkxw%2Fs640%2Finfusedvinegar8b.png&amp;xm=h&amp;xv=sa1.37.01&amp;xuid=GCwKJ_hoEhB0&amp;description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1392px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7956080332885050226%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D4190473662968591730%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D2%3Bsrc%3Dlink&amp;media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-atXUmX84-NE%2FVvXshYt_N5I%2FAAAAAAAAF_o%2FV6nwYbXJCp87EYkOVxNH2FtWaVGkoQkxw%2Fs640%2Finfusedvinegar8b.png&amp;xm=h&amp;xv=sa1.37.01&amp;xuid=GCwKJ_hoEhB0&amp;description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1392px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-31880479144160969362016-04-05T05:30:00.000-07:002016-04-05T11:35:16.944-07:00Name That Herb<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QoagAXJMmVo/VwQFUhZwTlI/AAAAAAAAGB0/MpVA_rl11IwS7Ot8atuVW_kyC6Zivu0tQ/s1600/plantpokes.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QoagAXJMmVo/VwQFUhZwTlI/AAAAAAAAGB0/MpVA_rl11IwS7Ot8atuVW_kyC6Zivu0tQ/s640/plantpokes.png" /></a>It's that time of year, visiting the local nurseries and picking out a few veggies and some herbs.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ot0wb3THF34/Vv1Sv2FwGCI/AAAAAAAAGAU/No6thVe7TDA8JEEmY-ZY4xqJiIpW6Geog/s1600/plantpoke2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ot0wb3THF34/Vv1Sv2FwGCI/AAAAAAAAGAU/No6thVe7TDA8JEEmY-ZY4xqJiIpW6Geog/s640/plantpoke2.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />We usually don't plant a big garden, just a few tomatoes, green beans, peppers and a plant or two of squash. &nbsp;Most of our property is wooded, we hate to cut down trees to enlarge our current garden plot. &nbsp;We are researching container or bale gardening. &nbsp;I'm looking forward to experimenting with these options.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RrYWL696E8I/Vv1S_yD1suI/AAAAAAAAGAY/XWq2KFE06GYm5_dVc9cSZsQcumKB4TtHg/s1600/plantpokes4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RrYWL696E8I/Vv1S_yD1suI/AAAAAAAAGAY/XWq2KFE06GYm5_dVc9cSZsQcumKB4TtHg/s640/plantpokes4.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />I made these plant pokes from the bottom of a disposable cake pan. To make these, cut the tin into rectangles with a pair of scissors, and score 1/4 of an inch in on the back side with a ball point pen, then, fold the edges in and smooth them down with a pencil. &nbsp;Write the herb name on the front side and score it with a ball point pen. Paint the sign with a primer and once the paint is dry cover it with a creamy white color ( I used DecoArt Americana paint, in Buttermilk). &nbsp;Once it is dry, water down a cinnamon color ( again, I used DecoArt American in Light Cinnamon) and wash it over the corners of the sign. &nbsp;Next, water down a Burnt Umber color (Also DecoArt Americana) and with a small lettering brush trace over the indented letters. &nbsp;Punch a hole in the top center with a pointed hole punch. &nbsp;I used a portion of a metal hanger to create the poke for the sign. &nbsp;Make a crook in the top and then bend up to form a hook to hold the sign. Of course, any bendable metal will work for this.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cOFIicH6884/Vv1TiIkZTKI/AAAAAAAAGAk/X9Oix4GBTlAbzr8OAcjzES5ozLd-s03pw/s1600/plantpokes6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cOFIicH6884/Vv1TiIkZTKI/AAAAAAAAGAk/X9Oix4GBTlAbzr8OAcjzES5ozLd-s03pw/s640/plantpokes6.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />I love fresh herbs, there's no other flavor like them!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bdmD3XDsOA0/Vv1Tzh3PC5I/AAAAAAAAGAs/O81p7kdLC2kfJu9-cHND6mXI6La6frbHg/s1600/plantpokes7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bdmD3XDsOA0/Vv1Tzh3PC5I/AAAAAAAAGAs/O81p7kdLC2kfJu9-cHND6mXI6La6frbHg/s640/plantpokes7.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VL00nUcGHjE/Vv6-Gsl4fGI/AAAAAAAAGBc/ukq6a0iH4iIcVC7XgizsqJolecYCZgAvA/s1600/herbpot7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VL00nUcGHjE/Vv6-Gsl4fGI/AAAAAAAAGBc/ukq6a0iH4iIcVC7XgizsqJolecYCZgAvA/s640/herbpot7.png" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LOpUBURAuE0/Vv1UCYHvTrI/AAAAAAAAGAw/4rMs67sp1TgtOIt6LzID9xeiuQItMqSRg/s1600/plantpokes8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LOpUBURAuE0/Vv1UCYHvTrI/AAAAAAAAGAw/4rMs67sp1TgtOIt6LzID9xeiuQItMqSRg/s640/plantpokes8.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />These pokes were made using carpenter's shims. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U4w72BJk0WM/Vv1UUoX8PXI/AAAAAAAAGA4/GHLY3gryuD8WxCqT8zrb4KYlhp77E4DXQ/s1600/plantpokes11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="324" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U4w72BJk0WM/Vv1UUoX8PXI/AAAAAAAAGA4/GHLY3gryuD8WxCqT8zrb4KYlhp77E4DXQ/s640/plantpokes11.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />For these herb pokes, I cut the shims down the center using a bandsaw. &nbsp;I painted them with a creamy white, then wrote the herb names in with black paint. Once the paint was dried I sanded over the letters to antique them slightly, and then stained them with a brown stain. &nbsp;I varnished them with an exterior varnish so they will hold up under the weather.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2JXSaguyCXY/Vv1UmstXApI/AAAAAAAAGBA/f7bGgZWA0zQjCeWpAuw7Ggtd8VRIqu7Ng/s1600/plantpokes13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2JXSaguyCXY/Vv1UmstXApI/AAAAAAAAGBA/f7bGgZWA0zQjCeWpAuw7Ggtd8VRIqu7Ng/s640/plantpokes13.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kh3SYP59_lY/Vv1U5zPzykI/AAAAAAAAGBE/xeDAZ89t39YWIX9FKBcaWFWHnD4-hl6bQ/s1600/plantpokes10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kh3SYP59_lY/Vv1U5zPzykI/AAAAAAAAGBE/xeDAZ89t39YWIX9FKBcaWFWHnD4-hl6bQ/s640/plantpokes10.png" width="426" /></a></div><br />These were fun to make and look great in the pots. What a help these will be in identifying the herbs once they are plated in a larger container. &nbsp;Yes, I do forget what they are and need a little reminder.<br /><br />Create...Share...Inspire...Believe<br /><br />~willa~<br /><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7956080332885050226%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D3188047914416096936%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&amp;media=https%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-kh3SYP59_lY%2FVv1U5zPzykI%2FAAAAAAAAGBE%2FxeDAZ89t39YWIX9FKBcaWFWHnD4-hl6bQ%2Fs640%2Fplantpokes10.png&amp;xm=h&amp;xv=sa1.37.01&amp;xuid=GCwKJ_hoEhB0&amp;description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 140px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 4006px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7956080332885050226%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D3188047914416096936%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&amp;media=https%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-kh3SYP59_lY%2FVv1U5zPzykI%2FAAAAAAAAGBE%2FxeDAZ89t39YWIX9FKBcaWFWHnD4-hl6bQ%2Fs640%2Fplantpokes10.png&amp;xm=h&amp;xv=sa1.37.01&amp;xuid=GCwKJ_hoEhB0&amp;description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 140px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 4006px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><br /><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7956080332885050226%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D3188047914416096936%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&amp;media=https%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-iOAUvGu5iGs%2FVv1ShW2DoaI%2FAAAAAAAAGAQ%2F2rl6eX5yb-IllytamWVlWaSxvNAiVc8yA%2Fs640%2Fplantpokes3.png&amp;xm=h&amp;xv=sa1.37.01&amp;xuid=GCwKJ_hoEhB0&amp;description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7956080332885050226%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D3188047914416096936%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&amp;media=https%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-iOAUvGu5iGs%2FVv1ShW2DoaI%2FAAAAAAAAGAQ%2F2rl6eX5yb-IllytamWVlWaSxvNAiVc8yA%2Fs640%2Fplantpokes3.png&amp;xm=h&amp;xv=sa1.37.01&amp;xuid=GCwKJ_hoEhB0&amp;description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><br /><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7956080332885050226%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D3188047914416096936%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&amp;media=https%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-bdmD3XDsOA0%2FVv1Tzh3PC5I%2FAAAAAAAAGAs%2FO81p7kdLC2kfJu9-cHND6mXI6La6frbHg%2Fs640%2Fplantpokes7.png&amp;xm=h&amp;xv=sa1.37.01&amp;xuid=GCwKJ_hoEhB0&amp;description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 2210px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7956080332885050226%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D3188047914416096936%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&amp;media=https%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-bdmD3XDsOA0%2FVv1Tzh3PC5I%2FAAAAAAAAGAs%2FO81p7kdLC2kfJu9-cHND6mXI6La6frbHg%2Fs640%2Fplantpokes7.png&amp;xm=h&amp;xv=sa1.37.01&amp;xuid=GCwKJ_hoEhB0&amp;description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 2210px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-88842093426647250602016-03-22T05:30:00.000-07:002016-03-22T05:30:01.754-07:00My Life With a Border Collie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dMqYpH1ISKs/Vu1vZKMVcHI/AAAAAAAAF78/MJE3ry9yRLIwMnX1KycElyvNoYzp1VeeQ/s1600/Sadiewatching4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dMqYpH1ISKs/Vu1vZKMVcHI/AAAAAAAAF78/MJE3ry9yRLIwMnX1KycElyvNoYzp1VeeQ/s640/Sadiewatching4.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />The Happenings of Maywood Cottage.<br /><br />The Border Collie is definitely my choice of breed, they are full of energy and have the best antics.<br /><br />This is my girl SadieMae. &nbsp;She's the pup of Maywood Cottage.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H_GBkXECviQ/Vu1vzO93neI/AAAAAAAAF8A/GDKC5c3O6JMDKR7Oq-TYLqk0oClxYXCOA/s1600/mysadie2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H_GBkXECviQ/Vu1vzO93neI/AAAAAAAAF8A/GDKC5c3O6JMDKR7Oq-TYLqk0oClxYXCOA/s640/mysadie2.jpg" width="430" /></a></div><br />Cute antics? &nbsp;Yes<br />Border Collie Stubborn? &nbsp;Yes<br />Love for life? &nbsp;Yes<br />A little crazy? &nbsp;Yes, yes, yes<br />Finds trouble easily? &nbsp;Yes<br />Neurotic? &nbsp;Absolutely, YES!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FecH9Ncq7qg/Vu1wFWEpRJI/AAAAAAAAF8I/sY1A9K2i_uMSv0ZH7YjIyvajm_sNdp4_A/s1600/bordersadie2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FecH9Ncq7qg/Vu1wFWEpRJI/AAAAAAAAF8I/sY1A9K2i_uMSv0ZH7YjIyvajm_sNdp4_A/s640/bordersadie2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />SadieMae is a rescue Border Collie. &nbsp;She was a rescue from an animal shelter in West Virginia. &nbsp;She was somewhere between 1 and 1.5 years old when she came to live with us back in August 2008. &nbsp;We don't know her history, she was found on the animal shelter grounds and no one came to claim her. &nbsp;I assume she was dumped by someone who did not understand a Border Collie and could not handle her energy and love for life. &nbsp;That's just an assumption; what I do know is that she came with a lot of baggage.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ixf-J_rgb6k/Vu1wh9DsnMI/AAAAAAAAF8Q/568tx6RaRMEDs-QjT0nQqwpaMnYKVwLbg/s1600/hiker2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ixf-J_rgb6k/Vu1wh9DsnMI/AAAAAAAAF8Q/568tx6RaRMEDs-QjT0nQqwpaMnYKVwLbg/s640/hiker2.png" width="426" /></a></div><br />We were told SadieMae was house trained and knew a few basic commands but that was wishful thinking. &nbsp;She was raw, untrained in every way. &nbsp;But, that did not deter us. &nbsp;Once she was a part of our family she received all the help she needed to become a vital part of the pack. I spent month after month teaching and training her. &nbsp;That's when her baggage came into focus. She had many fears, one of which was fear of men. &nbsp;SadieMae gladly accepted me but was fearful of my husband. It made me wonder what happened. &nbsp;Why is she so afraid? Who hurt her? What is her story? &nbsp;The story only her actions could tell. &nbsp;This was the hardest and longest part of working through her hangups. &nbsp;My husband had to win her trust and help her confidence. &nbsp;The slightest rise in his voice sent her skittering. &nbsp;She would sit with me but not by him....at least in the beginning. &nbsp;But his patience finally won her over.<br /><br />Even though Sadie had fears we had to work through, she's also a dominate force and reactive. &nbsp;Sadie had a strong motion sensitivity which sent her full throttle after running kids, cars, squirrels, rabbits, anything that moved. &nbsp;And, any sudden movement caused her to react.<br /><br />I remember the day I realized Sadie and I had made it. &nbsp;I was walking her in our rural neighborhood and one of my neighbors stopped his truck along side us and asked me if this was the same dog I had the previous summer. &nbsp;I looked over at SadieMae sitting calmly while I talked to this "male neighbor" &nbsp;and said "yes, it's the same one". &nbsp;He replied, "it's amazing how well behaved she's become". <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bcoHreg5GOU/Vu3uT5EHV-I/AAAAAAAAF84/Rrl8FRD5NnQC93olTCr033uwH1_NrktbA/s1600/snowkids3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bcoHreg5GOU/Vu3uT5EHV-I/AAAAAAAAF84/Rrl8FRD5NnQC93olTCr033uwH1_NrktbA/s640/snowkids3.png" width="452" /></a></div><br /><br />When I arrived home I thought of all that SadieMae had learned since she had come to live at Maywood Cottage and be a part of our home. &nbsp;She had learned more than just basic commands like sit, stay, here, heel. &nbsp;She had learned her territory, where the property boundaries are and not cross them, she had made excellent strides in not herding the grandchildren (but they also learned what to do if she did), she would walk with me off her lead and was making a great trail dog. &nbsp;Sadie learned fun things like search and rescue, hide and seek, how to play dead, &nbsp;high fives and a few dance moves. &nbsp;She plays frisbee and became a great babysitter for the kids. &nbsp;There are more things she learned that first year and the years that followed, she has a learning mentality and I found that the more I challenged her to learn the less reactive she is. &nbsp;But the biggest and most endearing thing she learned was to trust us. &nbsp;That we would not hurt her, that we would love her and nurture her to become the best dog she could be; that she is a vital part of our family and would never be dumped off because of her quirks. After all, we all have a few quirks and hers fit right in with us.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dq9kVux5M3Y/Vu3vE0xjByI/AAAAAAAAF9E/vpAbYIle17IAgFH8wfDEhOwpomy5R1zmQ/s1600/pawpaws2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dq9kVux5M3Y/Vu3vE0xjByI/AAAAAAAAF9E/vpAbYIle17IAgFH8wfDEhOwpomy5R1zmQ/s640/pawpaws2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />But, Sadie is not the only one who went through a learning process &nbsp;I have learned too. &nbsp;That first year wasn't easy but I learned I could make it through the difficult times by taking it one day at a time. I learned that a diamond in the rough after polishing will shine if you put in the effort and don't give up. &nbsp;I learned to break the training into smaller steps and work on it everyday. &nbsp;I learned to keep looking ahead and only look back to measure how far we've advanced. &nbsp;I learned that trust isn't always a 2 way street, but, that it is a single lane where you learn to walk together, side by side. &nbsp;Through my sweet puppy and my adventure together I have learned that your future doesn't have to be defined by your past. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LFuPVhq3NXU/Vu3vYEXR4VI/AAAAAAAAF9I/j8yxff-8vq8tsT3779sJB1YWN7g1fNdTQ/s1600/sadieinwoodsk2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="460" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LFuPVhq3NXU/Vu3vYEXR4VI/AAAAAAAAF9I/j8yxff-8vq8tsT3779sJB1YWN7g1fNdTQ/s640/sadieinwoodsk2.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />SadieMae is around 9 years old this year, lately she's living life in the "slower" lane. &nbsp;She likes to lay around more but true to her nature is still loves to learn. &nbsp;When I offer her a treat she usually has to work for it so rather than patiently waiting for a direction she starts going through most of her treat commands. &nbsp;She such a trooper.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-doJkBIvCzLI/Vu3vx-fdS5I/AAAAAAAAF9Q/LUtUKYFa1KMVVeU92FNbl0vZoduwsVoag/s1600/sleepysadie5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-doJkBIvCzLI/Vu3vx-fdS5I/AAAAAAAAF9Q/LUtUKYFa1KMVVeU92FNbl0vZoduwsVoag/s640/sleepysadie5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Create...Inspire...Share...Believe</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~willa~</div>The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-75280389261559530562016-03-20T14:46:00.001-07:002016-03-20T17:02:38.504-07:00Snow... Plus...Kids...Plus...Camera ChallengeThe Happenings of Maywood Cottage.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2itR1j7rOFE/Vu8Wk6dOHrI/AAAAAAAAF9s/qsJhpDH1Mzo0_CRMyhwBWF0QeRcLEmqVw/s1600/snowkids2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2itR1j7rOFE/Vu8Wk6dOHrI/AAAAAAAAF9s/qsJhpDH1Mzo0_CRMyhwBWF0QeRcLEmqVw/s640/snowkids2.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />I was hoping for another snow before Spring erased winter's vestige and yesterday, the day before the first day of Spring, it snowed. &nbsp;Big wet flakes of the white stuff fell for most of the day. &nbsp;The temps hovered around freezing so most the snow melted away following its wistful landing. Hubby and I watched it fall from the warm rooms of our home. We read while it fell, we baked carrot cake muffins while it fell, we took care of a few chores around the house while it fell, we watched a couple of programs while it fell. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AY8wA7UZ0DA/Vu8W6CsdmoI/AAAAAAAAF9w/0Imdn1V8lAUqAGC3yUW0_YKpWbmTUuT2g/s1600/snowkids4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AY8wA7UZ0DA/Vu8W6CsdmoI/AAAAAAAAF9w/0Imdn1V8lAUqAGC3yUW0_YKpWbmTUuT2g/s640/snowkids4.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />Then, I remembered, I need to take a few photos of inclement weather for a photo challenge I'm participating in. &nbsp;I asked the grandkids if they would be willing to be my amazing models; "of course" they all chimed in, well, all except one who was recovering from the stomach flu. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OQ8Qqhn_Sro/Vu8XQtx04fI/AAAAAAAAF90/L21ACEHjTKkG47IcwbDvOoWNoxvouAWKA/s1600/snowkids9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OQ8Qqhn_Sro/Vu8XQtx04fI/AAAAAAAAF90/L21ACEHjTKkG47IcwbDvOoWNoxvouAWKA/s640/snowkids9.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />I researched the camera settings I would need for falling snow, pulled on my hiking boots, shrugged into my coat, grabbed my camera, tripod and an umbrella and met the kids outside. &nbsp;It was so much fun capturing their sweet smiles and personalities on film...I mean a memory card. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kLGjxejgH0U/Vu8YttBLv7I/AAAAAAAAF-E/GeCBQ33SrGsFz1JJ7u0LZdg3KwLJLfrYw/s1600/snowkids7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kLGjxejgH0U/Vu8YttBLv7I/AAAAAAAAF-E/GeCBQ33SrGsFz1JJ7u0LZdg3KwLJLfrYw/s640/snowkids7.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />Even the Cottage pup posed for a few shots.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ORS6Jpeb528/Vu8ZGFWcBGI/AAAAAAAAF-I/kqRmO6jiuaY5ei7BGMpVB3s4y6zM3rO6Q/s1600/snowkids3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ORS6Jpeb528/Vu8ZGFWcBGI/AAAAAAAAF-I/kqRmO6jiuaY5ei7BGMpVB3s4y6zM3rO6Q/s640/snowkids3.png" width="452" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UlwJjm5x0HY/Vu857CnO4EI/AAAAAAAAF-c/HFhLQGQLaXMo7MoIsrOW7Kg78rh25XOfQ/s1600/snowyday.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UlwJjm5x0HY/Vu857CnO4EI/AAAAAAAAF-c/HFhLQGQLaXMo7MoIsrOW7Kg78rh25XOfQ/s640/snowyday.png" width="426" /></a></div><br />It's was a great snow day. <br /><br />Create...Inspire...Share...Believe<br /><br />~willa~<br /><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7956080332885050226%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D7528038926155953056&amp;media=https%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-UlwJjm5x0HY%2FVu857CnO4EI%2FAAAAAAAAF-c%2FHFhLQGQLaXMo7MoIsrOW7Kg78rh25XOfQ%2Fs640%2Fsnowyday.png&amp;xm=h&amp;xv=sa1.37.01&amp;xuid=GCwKJ_hoEhB0&amp;description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 140px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 2844px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7956080332885050226%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D7528038926155953056&amp;media=https%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-UlwJjm5x0HY%2FVu857CnO4EI%2FAAAAAAAAF-c%2FHFhLQGQLaXMo7MoIsrOW7Kg78rh25XOfQ%2Fs640%2Fsnowyday.png&amp;xm=h&amp;xv=sa1.37.01&amp;xuid=GCwKJ_hoEhB0&amp;description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 140px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 2844px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-84201309089156357182016-03-15T05:00:00.000-07:002017-01-15T19:58:56.298-08:00Everything is coming up...Carrots!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DkYUGIdk5Fo/Vub6NL7j7dI/AAAAAAAAF68/nUIjmVMLU_A0bdeEb21fkVbvqfJ7yynNg/s1600/carrotmuffins.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DkYUGIdk5Fo/Vub6NL7j7dI/AAAAAAAAF68/nUIjmVMLU_A0bdeEb21fkVbvqfJ7yynNg/s640/carrotmuffins.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Happy Tuesday. &nbsp;Every where I look, I've been seeing carrots, yep, as in Bugs Bunny food. &nbsp;Well, maybe it's because it's almost Easter and carrots are posted on Facebook, Blogs, Pinterest and other social media. &nbsp;I've seen them stenciled, painted, stitched, felted, as wood cut-outs, and of course, in recipes.<br /><div><br /></div><div>My favorite thing to make with these tubulars are.....carrot cake muffins. &nbsp;I've used a wonderful carrot cake recipe from a Betty Crocker cookbook that is now a vintage cookbook... I can't believe it....it's vintage. &nbsp;This book was my first cookbook, it just can't be that old. &nbsp;Anyway, I tweaked this recipe quite a bit both ingredient and style wise through the years to make it into a recipe that we enjoy the most.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zxLrqFK1Nn0/VucTvJ6bUJI/AAAAAAAAF7Q/DuyopTWnzwgmII4kLHpPbq7TCrsQwD3nA/s1600/carrots.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zxLrqFK1Nn0/VucTvJ6bUJI/AAAAAAAAF7Q/DuyopTWnzwgmII4kLHpPbq7TCrsQwD3nA/s640/carrots.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mT9fuinK3no/VucUbUo8cgI/AAAAAAAAF7U/HjBhID2tQhQMw-jF2xMChZnMMuyvZDrGg/s1600/cookbook3b.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mT9fuinK3no/VucUbUo8cgI/AAAAAAAAF7U/HjBhID2tQhQMw-jF2xMChZnMMuyvZDrGg/s640/cookbook3b.png" width="518" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DneGsz-XWu8/Vub6ct_xyGI/AAAAAAAAF7A/eDqLAZPVfGUloYEzechBEvsVZEp1jw5UA/s1600/carrotmuffins3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DneGsz-XWu8/Vub6ct_xyGI/AAAAAAAAF7A/eDqLAZPVfGUloYEzechBEvsVZEp1jw5UA/s640/carrotmuffins3.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Carrot Cake Muffins</div><div><br /></div><div>1 1/2 cup of carrots finely shredded</div><div>1 1/4 cup of sugar</div><div>2 cups of flour</div><div>1 teaspoon of salt</div><div>1 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda</div><div>1/2 cup of sour cream</div><div>1 teaspoon of &nbsp;cinnamon</div><div>1 teaspoon of nutmeg</div><div>1 teaspoon of cloves</div><div>1/2 cup of vegetable oil</div><div>3 eggs</div><div>1 teaspoon of vanilla</div><div>1 cup of chopped nuts</div><div>2/3 cup of crushed pineapple. &nbsp;</div><div>1/3 cup of the juice from the crushed pineapple</div><div>1/2 cup of shredded coconut (optional)</div><div>3/4 cup of raisins</div><div><br /></div><div>Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees. &nbsp;Grease and flour muffin tins or use pre-made muffin liners, like I do. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>I mix everything by hand rather than using a mixer. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Mix eggs, sugar, sour cream vegetable oil, pineapple juice and vanilla together. &nbsp;In a separate bowl (or use a gallon sized baggie) combine the flour, salt, soda and spices together. &nbsp;Blend into wet mixture. &nbsp;Stir in pineapple, nuts, coconut and raisins. Finally, add and stir in the shredded carrots.&nbsp;</div><div><br />Fill cups 3/4 full with the mixture. &nbsp;Bake for 20 minutes or until muffins are done. &nbsp;If you're not sure the muffins are done, use the time honored tooth pick test. &nbsp;Insert the toothpick and remove, if the toothpick is clean...muffins are done. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>These are great without frosting but....frosting is, after all, the icing on the cake!</div><div><br /></div><div>Cream Cheese Frosting</div><div><br /></div><div>1 stick of butter</div><div>8 ounces of cream cheese</div><div>3 cups of powdered sugar</div><div>1 teaspoon of vanilla</div><div><br /></div><div>Cream the butter and cream cheese with a mixer. &nbsp;Add vanilla. &nbsp;Add powdered sugar 1 cup at a time. Mix until smooth.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>This is our all time favorite carrot recipe. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Create...Inspire...Share...Believe</div><div><br /></div><div>~willa~</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-19753527007002094822016-03-14T06:30:00.000-07:002016-03-14T15:41:40.825-07:00Cuppa Joe, Anyone?When I think back to my childhood, there are many sounds and smells that come back to me. <br /><br />The fresh smell of linens that spent the summer day on the clothes line.<br /><br />Racing into the house after school and the smell of a home cooked meal on the stove.<br /><br />The sound of crickets and frogs as I went to sleep at night.<br /><br />The sweet sound of birds singing through my bedroom window in the morning.<br /><br />The sound of the rooster crowing early in the morning<br /><br />The smell of freshly mowed grass on Saturday afternoons.<br /><br />The sound of the screen door slamming as we raced in or out of the house<br /><br />And of course, the sound of my mom or dad yelling about slamming the door<br /><br />So many memories of similar things....<br /><br />And then...there's the sound of the peculator and smell of the fresh pot of coffee....ahhhhh!<br /><br />No wonder I love coffee so much!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6Y_9fs_Blk/Vt3juqv-qmI/AAAAAAAAF5o/0PetnZbW1aE/s1600/coffeebar6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6Y_9fs_Blk/Vt3juqv-qmI/AAAAAAAAF5o/0PetnZbW1aE/s640/coffeebar6.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />I painted my vintage buffet last year and finally got around to making it into a coffee station. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZMKrlu5UAjo/Vt3j9wrNvSI/AAAAAAAAF5s/kdBBXKuR57U/s1600/coffeebar2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZMKrlu5UAjo/Vt3j9wrNvSI/AAAAAAAAF5s/kdBBXKuR57U/s640/coffeebar2.png" width="442" /></a></div><br />We bought a Kuerg a couple of years ago but I must admit, I still prefer a percolator.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GAcH9gpTV2g/Vt3kZJgNgYI/AAAAAAAAF50/VoXaqtHTnXo/s1600/coffeebar8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GAcH9gpTV2g/Vt3kZJgNgYI/AAAAAAAAF50/VoXaqtHTnXo/s640/coffeebar8.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />The Kuerg does make it simple. &nbsp;Pop the coffee pod in and push the button.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wsQixlcoz6c/Vt3klF18p2I/AAAAAAAAF54/vuhI_PH77j0/s1600/coffeebar4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wsQixlcoz6c/Vt3klF18p2I/AAAAAAAAF54/vuhI_PH77j0/s640/coffeebar4.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />I've been looking at homemade coffee syrups. &nbsp;It's on my to do list.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0NYntZE3W5U/Vt3kwcFcLJI/AAAAAAAAF58/IZQXvRscCDc/s1600/coffeebar9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0NYntZE3W5U/Vt3kwcFcLJI/AAAAAAAAF58/IZQXvRscCDc/s640/coffeebar9.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C1dZaNo6SF8/Vt3kK1CXJNI/AAAAAAAAF5w/ElLfYp5CZOI/s1600/coffeebar3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C1dZaNo6SF8/Vt3kK1CXJNI/AAAAAAAAF5w/ElLfYp5CZOI/s640/coffeebar3.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />Share...Create....Invite....Believe<br /><br />~willa~The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-69086009699484446152016-03-07T09:00:00.000-08:002016-03-08T04:41:58.590-08:00Utensil Caddy.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZjhlUmDToZY/Vt7H52PkGZI/AAAAAAAAF6g/f19MmfF-5QE/s1600/utensilcaddymaywood1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZjhlUmDToZY/Vt7H52PkGZI/AAAAAAAAF6g/f19MmfF-5QE/s640/utensilcaddymaywood1.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />We are a family of 9 so there are lot of seats at our table. &nbsp;Our son, Nick, plus his wife Susan and 4 grand kids have made a home in our basement. &nbsp;Don't worry, it's a daylight basement with 2000 sf. Lots of light and space; no dark, dank, scary spaces down there. &nbsp;Anyway, our daughter, Aly, is currently living in Australia. So, even though we are a family of 9 we have 8 that sit at our table a few nights a week.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d5IA1jBCOwU/Vt7ILbNYN7I/AAAAAAAAF6k/BWRTuFJRiio/s1600/utensilcaddymaywood2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d5IA1jBCOwU/Vt7ILbNYN7I/AAAAAAAAF6k/BWRTuFJRiio/s640/utensilcaddymaywood2.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><br />On nights we share a meal together it is usually done as self serve. The food is hot, the plates are filled, the drinks are poured and we finally sit down at the table. Then....inevitably, someone forgets their flatware. Four kids at the table, forgetting a fork, spoon or knife is going to happen. Once the utensil is retrieved, we fold our hands and give thanks for our food. &nbsp;The talk of the happenings of our day begins as we enjoy our meal together. It's a great time for our family.<br /><br />A couple of weeks ago I was looking at some items on the Pottery Barn website. &nbsp;In the section of "Customers who viewed this item also viewed this" I noticed a utensil caddy. What a perfect solution to our "someone forgot their flatware" situation. I added the caddy to the cart and had every intention of proceeding to check out when I experienced a moment of hesitation. &nbsp;Perhaps I should take a look at other options. <br /><br />I decided to wait and research different styles...and prices. &nbsp;I searched so many places and somewhere along the search line I came across some painted canning jars...definitely my style.<br /><br />I had a plan!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RPZ8M_0PPl8/VtjgoC5m5vI/AAAAAAAAF4c/ghY89E8i8Rk/s1600/utensilmaywood7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="378" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RPZ8M_0PPl8/VtjgoC5m5vI/AAAAAAAAF4c/ghY89E8i8Rk/s640/utensilmaywood7.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />A few years ago I bought several vintage sewing drawers at one of my favorite vintage/antique shops. I've used some for different projects over the past couple of years and knew I still had 2 or 3 left in my stash. &nbsp;I scrounged around and found the drawers then I rounded up some of my canning jars. What a great combination for a utensil caddy. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nKeRGJioM08/VtjhAezSrpI/AAAAAAAAF4k/Rprw_r9GM8g/s1600/utensilmaywood3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nKeRGJioM08/VtjhAezSrpI/AAAAAAAAF4k/Rprw_r9GM8g/s640/utensilmaywood3.png" width="426" /></a></div><br />I painted the jars and the drawer, printed out some labels, punched a hole in the labels, tied them to the jars with some jute, added the flatware and called it done.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tk9OaMC9EUg/VtjhUZvBsyI/AAAAAAAAF4s/ioUflYpSB1w/s1600/utensilmaywood9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tk9OaMC9EUg/VtjhUZvBsyI/AAAAAAAAF4s/ioUflYpSB1w/s640/utensilmaywood9.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />No more holding dinner while someone fetches a fork.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4e07MlwVr_0/VtjhrK_f1uI/AAAAAAAAF40/MR2gnCSJ9kU/s1600/utensilmaywood10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4e07MlwVr_0/VtjhrK_f1uI/AAAAAAAAF40/MR2gnCSJ9kU/s640/utensilmaywood10.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A9Fmds17P0s/Vtjh7QSUqTI/AAAAAAAAF44/iwfQbus6hgs/s1600/utensilmaywood11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A9Fmds17P0s/Vtjh7QSUqTI/AAAAAAAAF44/iwfQbus6hgs/s640/utensilmaywood11.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5dIAAR5n74M/VtjiKjKgLzI/AAAAAAAAF5A/G3l2ZcrfMdM/s1600/utensilmaywood8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5dIAAR5n74M/VtjiKjKgLzI/AAAAAAAAF5A/G3l2ZcrfMdM/s640/utensilmaywood8.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />Share...Inspire...Create...Believe<br /><br />~willa~<br /><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7956080332885050226%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dheader&amp;media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-mebH8Xv8Efs%2FVtjgC4P_LYI%2FAAAAAAAAF4U%2Fxn0nBd7iwwM%2Fs640%2Futensilmaywood.png&amp;xm=h&amp;xv=sa1.37.01&amp;xuid=GCwKJ_hoEhB0&amp;description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7956080332885050226%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dheader&amp;media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-mebH8Xv8Efs%2FVtjgC4P_LYI%2FAAAAAAAAF4U%2Fxn0nBd7iwwM%2Fs640%2Futensilmaywood.png&amp;xm=h&amp;xv=sa1.37.01&amp;xuid=GCwKJ_hoEhB0&amp;description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-84756038218505610072016-02-15T09:06:00.000-08:002016-02-15T09:06:50.530-08:00Dashing Through The Snow....It's a snowy day here at Maywood Cottage, and truthfully, these days are among my favorite.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OeFOjMPbyVI/VsH-umPQ0KI/AAAAAAAAF3Q/Lphk8f1wQE4/s1600/dashingthroughthesnow3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OeFOjMPbyVI/VsH-umPQ0KI/AAAAAAAAF3Q/Lphk8f1wQE4/s640/dashingthroughthesnow3.jpg" width="348" /></a></div>Every thing outside during this cold season seems dull, dead and colorless, but, when the snow starts to fall Maywood Cottage comes to life. &nbsp;The grandkids don their snow gear and head outdoors for some snow fun. <br /><br />The Cottage pups also get in on the action.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jjexrcZyqn0/VsICe2tabrI/AAAAAAAAF3c/SS2WMkWG6w4/s1600/snowpups3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="588" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jjexrcZyqn0/VsICe2tabrI/AAAAAAAAF3c/SS2WMkWG6w4/s640/snowpups3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yajvE9XVLSo/VsICp1KHv8I/AAAAAAAAF3g/Hv0C6Ga2J-M/s1600/snowpups5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="444" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yajvE9XVLSo/VsICp1KHv8I/AAAAAAAAF3g/Hv0C6Ga2J-M/s640/snowpups5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Even the newest pup, Link, is enjoying his first snow season.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q6538rRavHs/VsIC_d8NDII/AAAAAAAAF3k/v2sKwG22z4U/s1600/snowpup2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="472" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q6538rRavHs/VsIC_d8NDII/AAAAAAAAF3k/v2sKwG22z4U/s640/snowpup2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-2917651983095746252015-07-31T06:45:00.001-07:002015-07-31T06:51:49.810-07:00Summer Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0u7YTM4Rbz0/Vbt7DEzzXRI/AAAAAAAAElk/5kvhD5iCeHg/s1600/blackberries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="486" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0u7YTM4Rbz0/Vbt7DEzzXRI/AAAAAAAAElk/5kvhD5iCeHg/s640/blackberries.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Nothing says summer like fresh summer fruit off the vine. &nbsp;I picked this bowl of blackberries off our vines this morning. &nbsp;They are so warm and summery delicious, like sunshine on the taste buds. <br /><br />We planted our thornless blackberry vines 5 years ago. &nbsp;The first summer we eagerly awaited the blooms to fill the vines....didn't happen. &nbsp;The second year we waited for the blooms. &nbsp;There were a few but no fruit appeared behind them. &nbsp;The third year, with little hope and convinced our vines were from a non-producing off shoot, we checked them and to our delight there were some blooms with the tell-tale signs of fruit. &nbsp;A few times a week we checked on the fruit and was delighted to see the berries were growing. &nbsp;That year we only harvested a hand full or two, the bears and deer enjoyed the rest. <br /><br />By the 4th year the vines were loaded with berries. &nbsp;We made jars and jars of blackberry jam, cooked yummy blackberry cobbler with scoops of ice-cream and put some in the freezer to enjoy in the deep cold grip of winter.<br /><br />This year is another abundant harvest.<br /><br />Till Next Time<br />~willa~<br /><br />The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-81955493721039689182014-02-13T11:28:00.001-08:002014-02-13T11:28:20.420-08:00Snow Daze<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dLkUV9FAYes/Uv0b2OGfLnI/AAAAAAAADaE/mbVSIjskwSs/s1600/snowpost1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dLkUV9FAYes/Uv0b2OGfLnI/AAAAAAAADaE/mbVSIjskwSs/s1600/snowpost1.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;Have you ever noticed how silent snow is yet it makes a big statement?<br /><br />It covers the landscape in a blanket of softness and rubs off the rough edges<br /><br />It's color-less brightness <br /><br />Soft yet heavy<br /><br />This might be the last significant snowfall we have for the season.&nbsp; SadieMae and I are intent on enjoying it.&nbsp; Minus the shovelling part.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ETHBW_5mgww/Uv0cMRAKOSI/AAAAAAAADaM/5kgo8Avexgw/s1600/snowsadie2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ETHBW_5mgww/Uv0cMRAKOSI/AAAAAAAADaM/5kgo8Avexgw/s1600/snowsadie2.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wx4wXMmVAdk/Uv0cc12dcPI/AAAAAAAADaU/BWzwnD9EW0E/s1600/snowsadie4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wx4wXMmVAdk/Uv0cc12dcPI/AAAAAAAADaU/BWzwnD9EW0E/s1600/snowsadie4.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Did you hear that?</td></tr></tbody></table>Till next time<br />~willa~The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-52355294386092123302014-02-09T11:59:00.003-08:002016-04-21T17:07:47.261-07:00The Problem With Indecision<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lCZVNT7wRM0/UvfceM0MPaI/AAAAAAAADYU/hBnP7KzNUJo/s1600/maywoodcoff2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lCZVNT7wRM0/UvfceM0MPaI/AAAAAAAADYU/hBnP7KzNUJo/s1600/maywoodcoff2.jpg" height="468" width="640"></a></div><br />Do you ever have those days when you can't make a decision?<br /><br />That's the kind of day I had this weekend.<br /><br />I've had these glass canisters for a couple of years and want to change them up a little so I decide to paint them.<br /><br />Then I decided not to<br /><br />Instead I would paint the front square with some chalkboard paint<br /><br />Then I decided not to<br /><br />I'd rather paint them<br /><br />Then<br /><br />I changed my mind again <br /><br />Urrrgh!<br /><br />The problem with indecision is that it immobilizes a person<br /><br />Instead of getting something done<br /><br />You become stalled<br /><br />I don't like being stalled so..<br /><br />I decided to do something smaller and see if that would help in my decision process.<br /><br />Looking around my kitchen I found a pickle jar that my husband was using to keep some San Francois Bay coffee cups (essentially K-Cups) in.&nbsp; I remember a couple of weeks ago when he cleaned this jar up, I knew then I would need to "doctor" the it up.&nbsp; I couldn't just have a pickle jar sitting on my counter.&nbsp; <br /><br />This is the before<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zyeiyiui20Y/UvfcsmsSqiI/AAAAAAAADYg/x-SyCOhlmOY/s1600/Maywoodcoff5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zyeiyiui20Y/UvfcsmsSqiI/AAAAAAAADYg/x-SyCOhlmOY/s1600/Maywoodcoff5.jpg" height="640" width="602"></a></div><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Yep, it's a Vlasic pickle jar<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Honestly, I like the painted look<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zyOq_wBIyKE/Uvfc3sH9CzI/AAAAAAAADYo/ZXbammT0RDc/s1600/maywoodcoff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zyOq_wBIyKE/Uvfc3sH9CzI/AAAAAAAADYo/ZXbammT0RDc/s1600/maywoodcoff.jpg" height="640" width="548"></a></div>&nbsp;Hmmm<br /><br />Maybe I have finally made a decision<br /><br />Again<br /><br />Only Believe<br />~willa~The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-73730250413977570512014-01-22T03:53:00.000-08:002014-01-22T03:53:01.236-08:00Don't Hate Me...Because I love winter.&nbsp;&nbsp; There is so much I love about this season.&nbsp; As a matter of fact I have listed 10 reasons why I love winter on my blog "The Old Cupboard Door".&nbsp; You can read it <span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.theoldcupboarddoorblog.com/2014/01/i-have-secret.html">HERE</a></span><br /><br />Honestly, it's been a cold winter so I can understand why many people are yearning for a breath of spring.&nbsp; With these frigid temps, we're having and expected to see for the next week, I'm beginning to hear the faint whisper of longing for some warm spring days myself.<br /><br />Yesterday we received 6 inches of snow.&nbsp; My work place was closed so I enjoyed the day off with my family. <br /><br />Here are a few photos I took.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4CuuJWEO-nY/Ut8HG4eaENI/AAAAAAAADDw/WrLRITKYm4U/s1600/blogtireswing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4CuuJWEO-nY/Ut8HG4eaENI/AAAAAAAADDw/WrLRITKYm4U/s1600/blogtireswing.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>The kids love this old tire swing.&nbsp; Through out the summer they spent hours on on.&nbsp; It looks so forlorn this season.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7A7VDtXTrxg/Ut8HjD6LTtI/AAAAAAAADD4/C8pa7GbvBsU/s1600/blogsleds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7A7VDtXTrxg/Ut8HjD6LTtI/AAAAAAAADD4/C8pa7GbvBsU/s1600/blogsleds.jpg" height="280" width="640" /></a></div><br />All lined up and ready to blaze some snow trails.&nbsp; Actually, the kids had been on them before I snapped this photo.&nbsp; They were ready to go in and warm up.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-puH-nBFntsY/Ut8IEBbZILI/AAAAAAAADEA/59B0YsQsAbY/s1600/blogsledkids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-puH-nBFntsY/Ut8IEBbZILI/AAAAAAAADEA/59B0YsQsAbY/s1600/blogsledkids.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div><br />I think their breeches are full of snow!&nbsp; They took so many runs down the hill and some tumbles as well.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WzDAW8NFz9s/Ut8I44CBWQI/AAAAAAAADEI/GcXMvGkVfvw/s1600/tonysled2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WzDAW8NFz9s/Ut8I44CBWQI/AAAAAAAADEI/GcXMvGkVfvw/s1600/tonysled2.jpg" height="640" width="442" />&nbsp;</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It was a fun day at Maywood Cottage!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Till Next Time</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~willa~ </div><br />The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-39760713814387174042014-01-10T14:15:00.001-08:002014-01-10T21:07:10.999-08:00Gazing Outside The Window<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PeIYV3uNsXM/UtBxAD2SP-I/AAAAAAAAC7g/c1Kop0bhjZA/s1600/sadie2-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PeIYV3uNsXM/UtBxAD2SP-I/AAAAAAAAC7g/c1Kop0bhjZA/s1600/sadie2-2.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div><br /><br />Yes, I have been gazing outside the window but someone else in the family has as well.&nbsp; This seems to be Sadie's favorite spot, sitting by the patio doors that lead out to the back deck.&nbsp; From this "Sadie spot" she can look out into the wooded back yard.&nbsp; Every little thing that moves, she sees.&nbsp; She watches the birds, deer, neighborhood dogs and cats as well as anything or anyone else that/who passes by. One day she kept the tax assessor at bay!&nbsp; The poor fellow was to afraid to come near the house so he did his job at a distance.<br /><br />It's been a cold winter here so Sadie has stayed in the house to survey her domain even though she has a doggie door where she can get out to the deck.The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-41926738177256924992013-05-31T07:19:00.000-07:002016-04-12T17:27:42.143-07:00The Blooms At Maywood Cottage<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OtkjlD8Z2fc/UaDPVeCsm8I/AAAAAAAACi8/PmuROGIsQ0M/s1600/maywoodcottage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OtkjlD8Z2fc/UaDPVeCsm8I/AAAAAAAACi8/PmuROGIsQ0M/s640/maywoodcottage.jpg" width="620" /></a></div><br /><br />Nothing speaks cottage more than wisteria and roses.&nbsp; Both are in full bloom here at the cottage.&nbsp; I must admit since starting back to work in&nbsp; 2010 I have neglected my flower gardens but in spite of my ignoring their care my flowers have not held it against me and have bloomed beautifully.<br /><br />I have so much to do in the gardens, you know the stuff you dont' want to do like weeding and dividing; they need some mulch and pruning back.&nbsp; Honestly, I will get around to it soon.&nbsp; I need a few days of vacation to get it all done.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7xce2_ePgjM/UaDPymKt8tI/AAAAAAAACjE/sg-PdL-Yux4/s1600/maywoodcottage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7xce2_ePgjM/UaDPymKt8tI/AAAAAAAACjE/sg-PdL-Yux4/s640/maywoodcottage2.jpg" width="552" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><ul><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The wisteria has bloomed profusely this year!&nbsp; The fragrance is so heady, it's almost intoxicating.&nbsp; I love to see the breeze blow through these vines and watch the spent blooms gently float through the air like snowflakes.&nbsp; </div></li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x8mkYAIEPkA/UaDRSHfiJrI/AAAAAAAACjY/1L8VcdBQ7ZU/s1600/maywoodcottage4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x8mkYAIEPkA/UaDRSHfiJrI/AAAAAAAACjY/1L8VcdBQ7ZU/s640/maywoodcottage4.jpg" width="620" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In spite of my neglect of them, the roses are blooming like they have had the tender loving care that they deserve.&nbsp; </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kPesLAze6vo/UaDRpsdkrcI/AAAAAAAACjg/P7A2DKDT_Z0/s1600/maywoodcottage3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kPesLAze6vo/UaDRpsdkrcI/AAAAAAAACjg/P7A2DKDT_Z0/s640/maywoodcottage3.jpg" width="570" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Thanks for taking a peek at my gardens.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Till Next Time</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~willa~</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-22394319444271333292011-11-09T00:07:00.000-08:002014-12-20T14:56:37.856-08:00November Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8ZQ98dxuTgQ/TrozpkPXc2I/AAAAAAAABhg/jZHWudS1Tf4/s1600/magicalsnowflakes3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8ZQ98dxuTgQ/TrozpkPXc2I/AAAAAAAABhg/jZHWudS1Tf4/s400/magicalsnowflakes3.JPG" height="400" width="267" /></a></div>This snowman make-do is made from an old mill spool, styrofoam ball, wall mud, and magical snowflakes. I threw in some jingle bells, homespun, a cinnamon snowflake and an old sock. A generous helping of glass glitter makes him sparkle inside and out. Visit my prim blog for the tutorial on making him <br /><br /><a href="http://theoldcupboarddoorprimcrafting.blogspot.com/2011/12/snowman-make-do-tutorial.html">Snowman Make-Do Tutorial</a>The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-4020109723799240042011-11-05T11:52:00.000-07:002011-11-05T11:55:02.115-07:00My Autumn Porch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WtKPwDd4rSQ/TrWBgNtNHyI/AAAAAAAABeo/aN_2Y76lrPU/s1600/fallporch2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WtKPwDd4rSQ/TrWBgNtNHyI/AAAAAAAABeo/aN_2Y76lrPU/s400/fallporch2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>I have noticed that many bloggers have Christmas graphics on their blogs already. I'm just not ready to start that season yet even though we have had a whiff of snow and the weather has turned grey and cold. There is still some color left in the trees so I want to continue to enjoy this season of the year.&nbsp; Since it was a cool sunny day I got out to do some work in the yard. I gathered up most of the flower pots and dumped the dirt from them into the garden. I stored the pots and other garden knick-knacks in the room above the garage. Whew! I'm glad that is finished! While I was out I decided to snap a few photos to share here at Maywood Cottage. <br /><br />My poor porch seats are in need of some attention. Since the season of enjoying the outdoors on the porch is coming to an end I think I will bring the seats and fabric in and try to finish&nbsp;them this winter. I purchased the fabric last year intending to make new seat covers this year but I was gone most of the spring and summer and, as you can see, didn't get "aroundtoit". So, I wrapped the fabric around the seats and as soon as it's to cold to sit outside I will bring them in&nbsp;and hopefully get to work on it. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IrNKcxEn_n8/TrV_8ST8g6I/AAAAAAAABeQ/8EgUtlQEQdo/s1600/fallporch3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IrNKcxEn_n8/TrV_8ST8g6I/AAAAAAAABeQ/8EgUtlQEQdo/s400/fallporch3.JPG" width="267" /></a></div>I found this dry sink at a swap meet just up the street. I have been looking for something like this to put on my porch. It needs a new coat of paint ( I will get "aroundtoit" sooner or later) and some new knobs. At this point I think I will paint it green, a vintage green but I may change my mind by next spring.&nbsp; The top is marble. We need something we can set our coffee on...or tea. <br /><br />Another thing I would love to do is stain the concrete on&nbsp;the porch.&nbsp; I would love a warm color to add some depth to that space.&nbsp; It also needs an outdoor rug...so many things on my list of things to do.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_QJilBrJnhk/TrV_sIaFD6I/AAAAAAAABeE/E8zRxaAZuZg/s1600/fallporch4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_QJilBrJnhk/TrV_sIaFD6I/AAAAAAAABeE/E8zRxaAZuZg/s400/fallporch4.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>My Sweetie and I enjoy having our coffee at this little table in the corner of the porch. Sometimes the grandbabies come up for a snack and this is a perfect place for them. We enjoy our porch through most of the seasons. We even sit out and enjoy the snow during the winter. With a cup of hot cocoa, coffee or tea, its a perfect place to enjoy watching a few flakes fall. <br /><br />Those are some hydragas from my flower gardens.&nbsp; They have such lovely colors this time of year.&nbsp; I've put them into a copper watering pot.&nbsp; <br /><br />Thanks for stopping by.<br /><br />Til next time.....<br /><br />~willa~The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-55587532483515779492011-10-22T06:18:00.000-07:002011-10-22T06:18:34.753-07:00Autumn at Maywood Cottage<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vG3Sm2Z7q_0/TqK8QfvCUJI/AAAAAAAABYE/YKJboAdkIbM/s1600/falltrees7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vG3Sm2Z7q_0/TqK8QfvCUJI/AAAAAAAABYE/YKJboAdkIbM/s400/falltrees7.JPG" width="267" /></a></div>Autumn is my favorite time of year. The only negative thing about autum is that it is to short. There is so much to enjoy about this beautiful season. One of the things I enjoy doing is sitting on my front porch with a cup of coffee and a good book. Of course, SadieMae, our border collie won't let me sit out there by myself , she&nbsp;is hot on my heels when she sees me headed to the front door. I love driving up into our driveway this time of year and seeing the lovely colors of fall. This is a view from the bottom of our driveway. We had the driveway paved this week so those big ugly rocks have yet to be covered with some dirt.&nbsp; That will be a spring project. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TAPmuiw86Ek/TqK71QdsuWI/AAAAAAAABX4/JWJ2z7VYVrI/s1600/falltrees6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TAPmuiw86Ek/TqK71QdsuWI/AAAAAAAABX4/JWJ2z7VYVrI/s400/falltrees6.JPG" width="267" /></a></div>This is a view from the front porch. I hope to find the time to decorate the porch with the "decorating fixens" of this season. I haven't picked up one pumpkin yet. I will be sharing the finished photos once I have the decorating complete...I just hope it happens this year. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X-9xdEgjf5Y/TqK7cA0CQxI/AAAAAAAABXs/IUvgpeyM73Y/s1600/falltrees3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X-9xdEgjf5Y/TqK7cA0CQxI/AAAAAAAABXs/IUvgpeyM73Y/s400/falltrees3.JPG" width="267" /></a></div><br />Another photo from my porch. This is the East view. Last year construction began on our neighbors house. The lot has been empty since we built here and we hoped to buy the lot at some point but it wasn't up for sell until we didn't have funds to buy it. It was bought by the vice principal of one our high schools.&nbsp; Fortunately we have enough trees inbetween us to enjoy some privacy. Our property has almost 4 acres and most of it is wooded. I enjoy this place through all seasons. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TxZT6FW43gA/TqK6e-DxpxI/AAAAAAAABXg/ZU_-wY8Kw4o/s1600/falltrees2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TxZT6FW43gA/TqK6e-DxpxI/AAAAAAAABXg/ZU_-wY8Kw4o/s400/falltrees2.JPG" width="267" /></a></div>This is a view off our back deck. There are lots of maples and oak trees that make up our wooded property. In the spring we enjoy wild dogwoods and redbuds. It's a beautiful view through all the seasons. <br /><br />That's Maywood Cottage's Fall life. <br /><br />Til next time... <br /><br />~willa~The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-37692440562446705482011-10-04T14:50:00.000-07:002011-10-04T14:54:22.878-07:00Autumn Blessings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YAS2D_UjSjI/Tot5k_dwyyI/AAAAAAAABQw/UDaUio9lmhI/s1600/autumntree.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YAS2D_UjSjI/Tot5k_dwyyI/AAAAAAAABQw/UDaUio9lmhI/s400/autumntree.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br />Happy Autumn Blogger Friends! I wanted to share my Autumn tree here at Maywood Cottage. I've been wanting to put one up for 3 or 4 years but each year went by without one. Last Saturday I finally pulled a tree down from storage and dragged out a few decorations I have been collecting for the past few years. One thing it is missing is a few hand made items.... of course you know I will be working on those. I am on the lookout for some fun lights to add too. Ahh, an excuse to go to Hobby Lobby, which recently opened in Winchester, about a 30 minute drive from here. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WwyoFct7wDE/Tot5TvVPIaI/AAAAAAAABQo/gZOxZu_jd8o/s1600/autumntree2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WwyoFct7wDE/Tot5TvVPIaI/AAAAAAAABQo/gZOxZu_jd8o/s400/autumntree2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>I wrapped the base in a piece of burlap. One of these days I will make a skirt from canvas and paint it...one of these days. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FEhlUwU6UBM/Tot5BCiZdKI/AAAAAAAABQg/f__jDpV4f8M/s1600/falltree3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FEhlUwU6UBM/Tot5BCiZdKI/AAAAAAAABQg/f__jDpV4f8M/s400/falltree3.JPG" width="267" /></a></div>Aren't these acorn bells darling? I found them at Hobby Lobby....I gotta go back!<br /><br />I am enjoying this cooler weather! The leaves are starting to put on their lovely colors in our area. This cooler weather energizes me so I am hard at work painting and finishing projects around the house.<br /><br />Update on the kitchen. We finally have finished the backsplash. I chose to use beadboard and my darling sweetie installed it for me. I will be sharing photos of our progress soon. Our next project is the dining area. I'm trying to decide between board and batten or beadboard. I hope to finish it before I leave on my next trip. .<br /><br />Till next time<br /><br />~willa~ The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7956080332885050226.post-87862450932908942872011-05-19T04:05:00.000-07:002011-05-20T08:16:51.468-07:00Beadboard Backsplash.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NEFHFZGqfxQ/TdZ-ML09lSI/AAAAAAAABNA/cPEC_M7bF3Q/s1600/sinkandfaucet1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NEFHFZGqfxQ/TdZ-ML09lSI/AAAAAAAABNA/cPEC_M7bF3Q/s400/sinkandfaucet1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5608809133734991138" /></a><br />Finally a day off! I've been working 56 hour weeks and appreciate this day off....immensely. I'm spending part of the day researching ideas for the bead board back splash I want to add to the kitchen. I've come across a few pictures that are inspiring and want to share them with you. <br /><br />In my search for ideas on using bead board as a back splash, I came across a few articles that mentioned how difficult it is to clean the bead board; that was a discouraging piece of information, I needed options. Since the stove area has the most potential for making a mess on the back splash I've been considering what to use in this area. While on a shopping trip to Lowes I noticed some metal tile panels and thought they would make a great piece to go behind the stove. Lo-and-behold I found a photo where the home owner had incorporated this idea. It makes a great transition between the bead board panels; problem solved. Isn't this beautiful?<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bHHxEYIOiHw/TdZ-BEROTHI/AAAAAAAABM4/LwmYeacT4tg/s1600/backsplash3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bHHxEYIOiHw/TdZ-BEROTHI/AAAAAAAABM4/LwmYeacT4tg/s400/backsplash3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5608808942727482482" /></a><br /><br />Before I left on this trip I had a little chat with my sweetie about the back splash, I showed him how far up on the wall I wanted the back splash to go. He stood a moment looking rather puzzled that I wanted the back splash to go that high and couldn't seem to compute the concept. Well, now I have a photo to show him. I love how high this home owner has placed their back splash. The layout of this sink area is much like my kitchen, with the window size and placement as well as the cabinets. <br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dLjsGAfF3YU/TdZ91lk5T6I/AAAAAAAABMw/d6w2emycVrc/s1600/backsplash4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dLjsGAfF3YU/TdZ91lk5T6I/AAAAAAAABMw/d6w2emycVrc/s400/backsplash4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5608808745509932962" /></a><br /><br />I love how this has been trimmed out. I was reading that you should use tile for the trim around the sink area. I need to research further but I would think that using regular trim and caulking well would be OK. But, I'm new to all of this and certainly don't want to be redoing something a year down the road. Any ideas?The Old Cupboard Doornoreply@blogger.com2